“Ah, yes, I expect so. And did you ever have on a flaxseed poultice?” resumed Mr. Snodgrass.
“Once, when I had pneumonia.”
“Well, this new plaster, made of medicated clay, takes the place of a mustard plaster, or a poultice. It will draw out pain, soreness and swelling, as we have proved in several cases. We now wish to try it on a larger scale, and with a severe case. It will not hurt you, and it may benefit you greatly. Are you willing to risk it?”
“I’ll risk most anything to get rid of this pain!” cried Bill. “It’s fierce! Go ahead with your plaster.”
The mixture in the pan was stirred some more. Then a part of it was spread on a cloth, and, when it was cool enough, it was put on the inflamed knee.
“Ouch! It burns!” cried Bill, jumping up.
“It will soon cool,” said Professor Snodgrass. “Sit still!”
The knee was bound up, and Bill limped away.
“We’ll look at it in the morning,” said Fussel. “Then you’ll be much better.”
“If I’m any worse I’ll be dead,” grunted Bill.